by Brit
(Haverhill, Massachusetts, US)

Felix, 11 week male kitten had his first time throwing up yesterday. It was a pinkish white foam. His stools have been soft as well. I've only had him for two weeks. He hasn't had any of his feline vaccinations or check ups yet but will on September 5. My kitten is not neutered yet either.

He is extremely playful, loves to cuddle and nap, little by little throughout the day. His activities have not changed but I am extremely concerned. Two months ago I lost my cat, 9 years old, to kidney failure, and he had puked pinkish white foam too.

Please get back to me. Felix has a veterinarian appointment on Monday, August 22nd, but more than one opinion counts!


Dear Brit,

I'm confused as to whether your kitten is being examined by a veterinarian this coming Monday, August 22nd or waiting until September 5th? In any event, I'd like to start by saying that waiting until September 5th to begin your kitten's first vaccines and deworming treatment is actually waiting too long. In fact, whenever possible, feline vaccinations should be started at 6 weeks old.

That said, the most common cause of soft stool and even vomiting in young kittens is parasites. While cat parasites are relatively treatable, young kittens can become easily dehydrated from vomiting, diarrhea, and possibly even blood loss from parasites, so bringing your kitten and a fecal sample to a veterinarian would be quite wise, and the sooner the better!

All the best,
Dr. Neely